Families across Wiltshire are being invited to a free Roman Family Fun day at the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre in Cocklebury Road, Chippenham on Monday, July 27.

Visitors to the centre, which is jointly funded by Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council, will be able to meet a soldier from the Ermine Street Guard and a slave from a Wiltshire villa. They can find out about their lives, their jobs and the Romans they worked for.

Roman clothes will be available to dress up in, a giant mosaic is being made on the site, and a big Roman quiz has been arranged to test people’s knowledge.

Roman objects from recent excavations will be on show and visitors can try cleaning and identifying finds. Archaeologists will be on hand to explain how they have uncovered Wiltshire’s Roman past.

Bring along any finds you have made and expert will tell you what it is, and give you some clues to identify Roman objects.

This fun day is part of the Festival of British Archaeology which runs from July 18 to August 2. The festival is an annual event and aims to give everyone the opportunity to learn about their local heritage, to see archaeology in action, and to get involved.

Education officer for the history centre and event organiser Laurel Miller, said: “There will be something for all the family to enjoy. They can have a go at making a mosaic or dressing in a toga, talking to a Roman soldier and a household slave to get a real feel for Roman life or seeing amazing Roman finds including cremation pots, jewellery and pottery.”

The day will be split into two sessions with the morning one running from 10am to 12 noon and is suitable for all the family. The afternoon session is for children over eight years old only and runs from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

Numbers for both sessions are limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Children under eight must be accompanied by an adult.

To book your place call Laurel Miller on 01249 705529 or email wshceducation@wiltshire.gov.uk